SOCIO-ECONOMIC STUDY OF THE FISHERIES SECTOR IN SURINAME

Over the last decade, the fisheries sector has become increasingly important and currently represents 2.3% of GDP. In 2015, the total catch from vessels operating in Surinamese waters was 31.852 tons fish and 6.821 tons shrimp. Though total fish and shrimp capture has been fluctuating, higher international market prices have resulted in higher values of production and exports for the sector. This study describes the socio-economic, demographic and cultural characteristics of fisheries in Suriname with representation of local fishing communities within the coastal districts. This study, funded by the Dutch Embassy Suriname, was commissioned within the context of the project: Promoting Integrated and Participatory Ocean Governance in Guyana and Suriname: the Eastern Gate to the Caribbean, funded by the European Union.